Deadline: 17 November 2025
The Culture for Development is announcing a Call for Advocacy Grants Scheme to empower independent cultural organizations in the Republic of North Macedonia to address urgent challenges and advocate for long-term, systemic improvements in the cultural sector.
A new opportunity has emerged for cultural and artistic organizations in North Macedonia through the Advocacy Grants Scheme, which provides financial support to strengthen advocacy efforts in the cultural sector. The program offers grants of up to 3,992,000 MKD per organization, distributed over a period of two years and seven months, allowing sufficient time for meaningful planning, implementation, and impact. This funding aims to empower organizations to amplify their voices, influence cultural policy, and foster systemic improvements that benefit the independent cultural scene.
The initiative supports projects that drive advocacy and awareness around key issues, encouraging engagement with decision-makers, public cultural institutions, and other relevant stakeholders. Projects are expected to promote collaboration among consortium members from diverse backgrounds and regions, ensuring that advocacy efforts are both inclusive and far-reaching. By combining different areas of expertise and perspectives, participating organizations can create stronger, more legitimate initiatives that reflect the needs and ambitions of North Macedonia’s independent cultural community.
Applicants are encouraged to design projects that not only promote advocacy but also actively connect with the wider public. Each application should include a concise advocacy plan outlining main steps and strategies, as well as at least one public event where findings and project outcomes can be shared. Such activities help to bridge the gap between cultural practitioners, policymakers, and communities, fostering greater understanding and support for cultural development across the country.
The call is open to consortia composed of at least two organizations, with one leading cultural or artistic organization that has been continuously active in the field for at least three years and demonstrates strong organizational capacity. Eligible partners may include civil society organizations, research institutes, think tanks, and other entities involved in arts and culture, such as foundations, limited liability companies, and registered entrepreneurs. At least one consortium member must have proven experience in advocacy, ensuring that projects are guided by expertise in influencing policy and mobilizing stakeholders effectively.
This grant scheme represents a valuable opportunity for collaboration, innovation, and long-term impact. By bringing together cultural actors, researchers, and advocates, it offers a platform to transform shared challenges into collective progress, strengthening the foundations of North Macedonia’s independent cultural sector and securing its role as a vibrant force in public life.
For more information, visit Heartefact.
